"The White House wants to make sure they're loyal soldiers," he said.
It all needs to happen quickly. Cabinet members face Senate confirmation hearings in January. By early February a hefty budget request document from the president lands on desks throughout the Capitol, reflecting priorities and needs for each department of the government.
With so much to be done, transitions aren't always pretty.
"The Clinton transition was a mess," Light said. "Probably the worst in modern history, very confused."
The country's transition means that in the next few weeks, the nation's capital becomes the most transient of cities. Those moving in will look for new apartments, new schools, new doctors and new local take-out. Those moving out will look for new jobs.
That's something the current president said he can relate to.
"As Jan. 20 draws near, some of you may be anxious about finding a new job or a new place to live," Bush said. "I know how you feel."
A cultural shift could be in store for Washington as well.
"When Carter came in, it became BBQ town," Light said. "He had BBQs on the White House lawn. He actually started a fire once with the BBQ."
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